GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

last match results

Found 2 definitions

1.       
   Pillar , n. [OE. pilerF. pilier, LL. pilare, pilarium, pilarius, fr. L. pila a pillar. See Pile a heap.]
   The general and popular term for a firm, upright, insulated support for a superstructure; a pier, column, or post; also, a column or shaft not supporting a superstructure, as one erected for a monument or an ornament.
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   Jacob set a pillar upon her grave.
   Gen. xxxv. 20.
   
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   The place . . . vast and proud,
   Supported by a hundred pillars stood.
   Dryden.
   
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   Figuratively, that which resembles such a pillar in appearance, character, or office; a supporter or mainstay; as, the Pillars of Hercules; a pillar of the state. “You are a well-deserving pillar.”  
   Shak.
   
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   By day a cloud, by night a pillar of fire.
   Milton.
   
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   (R. C. Ch.) A portable ornamental column, formerly carried before a cardinal, as emblematic of his support to the church. [Obs.]
   Skelton.
   
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   (Man.) The center of the volta, ring, or manege ground, around which a horse turns.
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   From pillar to post, hither and thither; to and fro; from one place or predicament to another; backward and forward. [Colloq.] -- Pillar saint. See Stylite. -- Pillars of the fauces. See Fauces, 1.
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2.       
   Pillar, a. (Mach.) Having a support in the form of a pillar, instead of legs; as, a pillar drill.
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